QF’s Academic Bridge Program Concludes the Harvard Model Congress Middle East 2026 in Education City
150 students participate in a hands-on educational experience on diplomacy in the age of innovation
Doha, Qatar, X January 2026: The Academic Bridge Program (ABP), part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education, concluded the Harvard Model Congress Middle East 2026 in Education City in collaboration with the University of Harvard, held under the theme “Diplomacy in the Age of Innovation,” with the participation of approximately 150 students from Qatar and 10 countries around the world.
The conference aimed to provide students with a hands-on educational experience through realistic simulations of negotiation and decision-making processes. Students took part in multiple sessions and committees that mirrored the work of parliaments, international forums, and United Nations sessions. During these sessions, participants assumed the roles of legislators and policymakers, discussed contemporary global issues, and proposed solutions to complex challenges.
The conference featured 11 international and local committees addressing a range of current issues, including digital infrastructure, digital banking in emerging European markets, and the impact of technology and innovation—such as smart cities—on democratic systems and policymaking. Sessions were led by students from Harvard University, who oversaw discussions and guided participants throughout the conference.
“Hosting this conference aligns with the Academic Bridge Program’s mission to prepare students academically, intellectually, and personally for higher education, while enabling them to develop critical thinking, constructive dialogue, and decision-making skills,” said Dr. Saheim Khalaf Al-Temimi, the Director of the Academic Bridge. “We are also pleased to announce that the Harvard Model Congress Middle East will be hosted again in Education City next year, continuing this educational collaboration.”
“The experience contributed to developing essential skills students need for their future pathways, whether in higher education or in fields such as public service, science, technology, and international affairs.”
He noted that organizing the conference reflects QF’s commitment to supporting experiential learning, empowering youth, and enhancing their engagement with global issues, while reinforcing Qatar’s role as a hub for dialogue, education, and innovation.
Dr. Al-Temimi also emphasized the importance of students continuing to carry forward the spirit of inquiry, responsibility, and global citizenship that characterized the conference, while remaining committed to asking questions, demonstrating leadership, and making positive contributions to their communities and the wider world.
Salma Boukouj, President of the Harvard Model Congress Middle East, said: “It was an intensive and enriching experience, during which students engaged in in-depth discussions and addressed real-world challenges that reflected their high level of commitment and seriousness. It was inspiring to see their passion, ambition, and depth of thinking, and I hope this experience will have a lasting impact on their journeys, as it did on mine.”
“Although the conference has concluded, it marks the beginning of a path of continued collaboration in Doha. Hosting the conference in Education City has proven successful and has opened the door to further developing this educational platform in the years ahead.”
Mohammed Abdulrahman, the youngest participant in the conference at 12 years old, from Nord Anglia International School – Qatar, said: “This experience taught me that age is not a measure of one’s ability to participate or make an impact. Rather, effort, preparation, and readiness for dialogue are what truly make the difference.”
“Through conferences like these, we as students learn how to express our views with confidence, listen to different perspectives, and work with respect and collaboration.”
